A cruise ship wedding combines the romance of a destination wedding with the allure of a relaxed yet adventurous honeymoon. Carnival, like many cruise lines, provides a dedicated wedding department that walks couples through every step of the process. Unlike in the movies, you will not be married on the open deck, nor will the ship’s captain perform the ceremony. Instead, you will select one of several shipboard locations and be married by a local official who is authorized to perform weddings in your chosen locale.

Packages

Carnival has four types of wedding packages, from an intimate ceremony-only option for eight people including the bride and groom to a deluxe bash for 50 that includes a 90-minute reception. A full luncheon is also available. Weddings typically take place on the ship on the day of embarkation, although shore-based weddings are available in some ports. Up to 50 non-sailing guests are permitted to attend, but must leave the ship an hour before sailing, so time your ceremony and reception accordingly. A basic package includes the officiant, wedding coordinator, ceremony with your choice of vows and readings, a bouquet and matching boutonniere, recorded music, a champagne toast with keepsake flutes, a wedding cake, chocolate-covered strawberries for your stateroom, and the services of a photographer. Photographs are available for sale during your cruise. Packages with a reception option include an open bar, coffee and tea service, and a selection of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres. The luncheon option includes an appetizer, entrée, side item and dessert along with house wine, coffee and tea, but not an open bar. Shore-based weddings include the basic package items for the bride and groom only. Additional guests may attend for a per-person fee. Upgrades and a la carte options for both shipboard and shore-based weddings are available through the wedding department. Your coordinator will work closely with you to personalize your ceremony and reception.

Booking Procedures

You must book your cruise before contacting the wedding department. Full payment for the wedding is due at the time of booking. Your wedding coordinator will help you select the package and wedding time that meet your needs. Carnival strongly suggests that bridal parties arrive in town at least one day before the ceremony. If you use Carnival’s Fly Aweigh airline arrangement service, you might need to deviate from the computer-selected flights. Contact the air sea deviation department at least 45 days before the cruise to arrange custom flight times. Wedding parties must use priority check-in on the day of the cruise. You are eligible to board the ship as soon as it clears customs. Carnival’s regular cruise transfer program will not get you to the ship on time, so hire outside transportation. In some ports, the wedding department may be able to arrange transportation for a nominal fee.

Marriage License Considerations

Carnival’s wedding department provides licensing coordinator services to help couples arrange marriage licenses in their chosen port. However, some jurisdictions require couples to appear in person to obtain a license. In some locales, such as New Orleans, you must obtain your license in person three days before the wedding occurs. Note that marriage license fees vary widely between ports. Work closely with your licensing coordinator to ensure that you understand all the rules and fees for your chosen location.

Vow Renewals

If you are already married but want to renew your vows on board, Carnival offers vow renewal packages hosted by the ship’s captain. You may arrange your vow renewal for anytime during the cruise except embarkation day and formal nights. The package includes the ceremony, a keepsake certificate, a wedding cake and sparkling wine toast, a bouquet and boutonniere, and recorded music. An optional one-hour reception with an open bar and hot and cold hors d’oeuvres is available.

References

About the Author

Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer specializing in disabled adventure travel. She spent 15 years working for Central Florida theme parks and frequently travels with her disabled father. Fritscher's work can be found in both print and online mediums, including VisualTravelTours.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of South Florida.